almost had me there two or three times. I’m not sure that I wouldn’t rather have Fagan’s spook get hold of me than Grant’s hands when he is as scared as he was to-night.” 

 “Well, fellows, what shall we do?” inquired George. “Do you want to give it up or go back?” 

 “Both,” said Fred quickly. “We’re not going back again to-night and we’re not going to give it up. We’re going ahead and find out what there is in that tomfoolery.” 

 “Well, I see you have a little piece of nerve left yet,” laughed George. “I told you what was coming but you wouldn’t believe me.” 

 “Was that the reason why you went outside, George?” demanded John. “You remember, fellows,” he added, turning to his companions, “George went around to the back of the old house. He was outside where he could get a fine running start if he had to.” 

 “That may all be,” said George slowly, “but my running start wasn’t much compared with the one you fellows had. If you didn’t get a running start I am wondering what time you would make if you had one. My, what a thing it would be at the track meet to have one of these ghosts to start the fellows off. I think the next time I see Grant on the track I’ll yell Fagan at him. I think he will break the record if I do. Especially if Fred is just ahead of him. If you’re not going back into the house,” he continued, “I think we had better go back to the machine and start for home.” 

 The boys all agreed and soon were seated in the car, riding swiftly back toward the farm. 

 Their confidence returned in proportion to the distance that intervened between them and the house which they had just visited. Indeed, when at last they arrived at the farmhouse every one was loud in his declaration that he had not been frightened by what had occurred and was strong in his determination to go back and investigate the things which had seemed so mysterious. 

 Nevertheless, in spite of their boasting, it was plain that Fred was somewhat chagrined by the quickness and rapidity of his departure from the old Meeker House. Several times that evening a sly allusion to his speed brought a quick retort. 

 The following morning, however, the courage and good spirits of the boys had returned in full measure. Even Fred was not afraid to acknowledge his fear of the night before and laughed as heartily as any of his friends when they described his antics in 

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